Lebanon Public Schools
Superintendent Gonzalez's September 2026 Update
Growing Learners, Cultivating Leaders, Creating Legacies!
Leadership and Learning are indispensable to each other
– John F. Kennedy
A Successful Start!
The 2026–27 school year is officially underway, and there is a great deal to celebrate across Lebanon Public Schools. Our students and staff returned to classrooms with tremendous energy and enthusiasm, and it has been wonderful to see our schools once again filled with learning, laughter, and connection. As we begin this new year, we remain focused on creating meaningful opportunities for every learner while continuing to live out our vision: We Grow Learners. We Cultivate Leaders. We Create Legacies.
We are excited to share that Lebanon Elementary School has been awarded a School Improvement Grant of more than $150,000 through the Connecticut State Department of Education. This significant investment will allow us to build upon the work already underway at LES, with a continued focus on accelerating student growth and strengthening literacy outcomes. Grant funding will support coaching and professional learning for staff, high-dosage tutoring for students, and family literacy events designed to help families support learning at home. We are proud of the work of our LES team and excited about the opportunity to invest these additional resources directly into our students, educators, and families.
At Lyman Memorial High School, our growing welding and manufacturing pathway continues to receive attention well beyond Lebanon. In August, WFSB Channel 3 visited Lyman to highlight the program and the opportunities we are creating for students to develop skills that connect directly to high-demand careers (see link to video in Highlights section below).
The welding pathway is about much more than a single course or program. It is part of our larger effort to create multiple pathways for students and strengthen the connection between our schools, postsecondary opportunities, and Connecticut's workforce. Through our work with the Connecticut Manufacturing and Innovation Forum and partnerships with industry, higher education, and workforce leaders, Lebanon students are gaining greater exposure to careers in welding, machining, manufacturing, and the skilled trades. We are particularly proud of the role Lebanon can play in preparing the next generation of skilled workers for Connecticut's maritime industries and submarine industrial base while providing our students with pathways to rewarding careers after graduation.
That work is also earning recognition outside of Connecticut. Lyman Memorial High School has been invited to participate in a September 23 panel and roundtable discussion at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy focused on preparing the next generation of workers for maritime industries and the submarine industrial base. The discussion will bring together education and workforce leaders, including representatives connected to the U.S. Department of Labor, and Lyman has been asked to share the work we have done to expand opportunities for students in welding, manufacturing, machining, and the union trades. We are proud that the progress being made here in Lebanon is being recognized as part of a broader regional conversation about developing the skilled workforce our state and nation will need in the years ahead.
We are also excited about the possibility of extending this work to our younger learners. Lebanon Middle School is pursuing an opportunity to partner with UConn and General Dynamics Electric Boat through the SeaPerch program, a hands-on STEM experience that introduces students to underwater robotics and maritime engineering. Through SeaPerch, students design, build, test, and operate their own remotely operated underwater vehicles while developing skills in engineering, problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation. The opportunity would complement the career pathway work underway at Lyman Memorial High School by introducing middle school students to STEM, engineering, and Connecticut's maritime industries at an earlier age. While this partnership is still being explored, we are excited about its potential to create another meaningful connection between classroom learning and the tremendous career opportunities available to our students right here in Connecticut.
Our students are also being recognized for their talents in the arts. We were thrilled that the Lyman Memorial High School Contemporary Ensemble was invited to perform and be showcased at the Connecticut State Department of Education's Back-to-School event. Being selected to represent student talent at a statewide gathering is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the dedication of our students and music educators. We are incredibly proud to see Lyman students representing Lebanon Public Schools on a statewide stage and demonstrating that the opportunities available to our students extend across academics, career and technical education, athletics, and the arts.
Whether our students are performing before a statewide audience, learning to weld in a technical education classroom, receiving additional academic support, or simply beginning another year of learning and growth in our classrooms, these opportunities reflect what we want for every Lebanon student. There are many different ways for young people to discover their talents, pursue their interests, and prepare for their futures, and our responsibility is to continue opening those doors.
Finding the Magic in the Mess!
What a way to kick off the 2026–2027 school year!
A huge thank you to Phil the Magic Man for joining us at our Lebanon Public Schools Convocation and bringing our theme, “Magic in the Mess,” to life.
Through humor, mentalism, audience participation, and plenty of surprises, Phil reminded us that things don’t always have to go exactly as planned for something pretty amazing to happen.
That feels like a perfect message as we begin a new school year. In education, the “mess” is often where the learning, growth, connection—and yes, the magic—happens.
Thank you, Phil, for helping us start the year with laughter, energy, and a little wonder!
Important Dates & Times
2026/2027 PLANNED EARLY CLOSING END TIMES
Lyman Memorial High School – 11:55 a.m.
Lebanon Middle School – 12:10 p.m.
Lebanon Elementary School – Grades K- 4 – 1:05 p.m.
AM Pre-K – 8:35 a.m. – 10:45 a.m; PM Pre-K – 10:45 a.m. – 1:05 p.m.
OPEN HOUSE
Lebanon Elementary School
Thursday, September 24, 2026 – Grades K – 4 – 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS
Lyman Memorial High School Library Media Center
Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7:30 p.m.
Kindergarten Signing Day!
Got questions? Ask our Lebanon Public Schools chatbot!
Over the past few years, we have worked hard to create a well designed website that contains helpful information, but even with all our hard work, we acknowledge it can be tough to find exactly what you are looking for. To that end, we have partnered with Apptegy to design the Lebanon Public Schools Chatbot to support your searches. When you visit our website you will see this prompt in the lower right hand corner of the page:
Hi there 👋 I'm the Lebanon Public Schools Chatbot - here to help you find the info you need quickly and easily. Type your question in the field or select one of the options below!
You can either send us a message by clicking the envelope icon, or you can dive into an AI led search by clicking the "star".
We hope this can be a helpful tool and we would appreciate your feedback on this new search function.
Update from the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
If your child is currently in Grades 3–8 or 11, you should have received their individual Student Report for the SBAC (Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium) and/or NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) assessments. Each spring, students in Grades 3–8 participate in the Smarter Balanced assessments in English language arts and mathematics, while students in grades 5,8, and 11 participate in the NGSS science assessment.
These results provide families and educators with helpful information about how students are progressing toward grade-level standards. It is important to remember that these assessments are just one measure of student learning and do not provide a complete picture of your child as a learner. When considered alongside classroom performance, teacher observations, other assessments, and a student’s individual growth, the results can help us better understand strengths and identify areas where additional support may be helpful. The results also help our schools look at broader trends across grade levels and student groups. This information supports our ongoing work to strengthen instruction, provide appropriate resources and supports, and ensure that all students have opportunities to be successful.
We encourage families to review the report and reach out to your child’s teacher if you have questions or would like to better understand the results. Your child’s teacher can help put the scores into context, share additional information about your child’s progress, and discuss any supports or next steps that may be appropriate. Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting your child’s learning and growth.
Child Find
Lebanon Public Schools actively seeks to assist children and families by locating, identifying, and referring children from birth to age 22 who require special education and related services. If you are concerned about a child's development, you are encouraged to contact Lebanon Elementary School to receive information about Early Childhood Screenings.
If the child is younger than 3 years of age, you may choose instead to contact the Connecticut Birth to Three System at 1-800-505-7000.
If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact 860-642-5636.
2026-2027 Calendar
Lebanon Public Schools Spotlight
Did you know?
Did you know that we have 21 towns outside of Lebanon represented at Lyman Memorial High School this year? We have 104 out district students that we have welcomed into our school community!
Senior Project
One of the best examples of student leadership and creativity this summer came through an impressive theatrical production led by Lyman Memorial High School student Addison Perry, with the support and guidance of Ms. Ricard.
The production recently earned high praise from our Lebanon Recreation Director, who had the opportunity to see firsthand what Addison, Ms. Ricard, and the participating students accomplished. From learning lines and performing songs and dances to managing costume changes and transitions between sets, the students demonstrated an extraordinary level of preparation, commitment, and teamwork.
Perhaps even more impressive was the spirit of inclusivity that surrounded the production. Every actor was made to feel valued and involved, creating an experience that was about much more than simply putting on a show. It was an opportunity for students to build confidence, form connections, and experience the pride that comes from working together toward something meaningful.
We are especially proud to see a senior project grow into an experience that positively impacted so many other students. Addison's leadership, Ms. Ricard's support, and the dedication of the entire cast are wonderful examples of what can happen when our students are given opportunities to take an idea, make it their own, and bring others along with them.
Congratulations to Addison, Ms. Ricard, and all of the students who helped make this production such a success. Moments like these remind us that some of the most powerful learning happens when students have the opportunity to lead, create, collaborate, and make others feel like they belong.
Unveiling the new LMHS Track! #BleedBlue
Staff Milestone Celebrations
Congrats on achieving tenure in our district
Thanks for 25 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 10 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 20 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 30 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 10 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 15 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 20 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 25 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 30 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 10 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 25 years of dedicated service
Thanks for 30 years of dedicated service
Congrats to our district Teacher of the Year
*Feel free to email me to nominate a deserving staff or community member *
Portrait of an Educator
At Lebanon Public Schools, we know that developing graduates who are responsible citizens, effective communicators, critical thinkers, innovative problem solvers, lifelong learners, and engaged collaborators begins with exceptional educators. The Portrait of an Educator recognition celebrates staff members who model these very qualities in their daily practice—empowering students, inspiring colleagues, and advancing our mission of growing learners, cultivating leaders, and creating legacies. During the 26-27 school year please be on the lookout for write ups celebrating our teaching team.
Heart of the Harvest
The Heart of the Harvest recognition honors an individual whose extraordinary commitment, selfless volunteerism, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on Lebanon Public Schools. Like the hands that tend and nurture a thriving harvest, this individual has given generously of their time, talents, and heart—helping to grow learners, cultivate leaders, and create legacies that will benefit generations to come.
Their efforts reflect the very essence of our district’s vision. Whether through steadfast support, behind-the-scenes contributions, or visible acts of service, the recipient of this award embodies the spirit of community and the belief that our schools flourish when we all come together in service of our students. We are proud to recognize their enduring influence and heartfelt commitment to our shared mission.
District Family Care Coordinator
Sabena Escott, MSW sabena.escott@lebanonct.org
Lyman Memorial High School Social Worker and District Family Care Coordinator
LPS Educational, Safety, Mental Health & Food Security Resources & Programs
Mental Health, Town & Community Resources: LPS
Providing students with access to mental health resources within the community and bringing mental health services to students inside of the school has always been a priority in our district. Please reach out if there are any specific mental health topics, community programs, therapeutic referrals or town programs and resources that you would like to know more about. Each month we will share a few programs and resources for students and families.
Resources
211: a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week online and over the phone.CT Resources
Crisis text line: Text 741741 - Free- 24/7- confidential text-based mental health support
Dial 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline- 24/7
The Trevor Project The world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ+ young people aged 13 to 24 Online chat Text "START" to 678-678
Urgent Crisis Center Urgent response for children's mental health crises.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention AFSP
Resources/Trainings
Mental Health First Aid Certification: MHFA
Education Series: Supporting a Loved One with Mental Health- NAMI
Opioid Overdose Narcan Clinic CT Mental Health & Addiction
Husky Health Benefit Medicaid & Health Insurance Eligibility for Children & Families & Behavioral Health Eligibility & Virtual Eligibility Meetings
Mental health, substance abuse and gambling supports Southeastern Regional Action Council
The CT Foodshare Mobile Distribution
Every other Tuesday from 11:15am to 11:45am at the Church of Hope/Red Barn – 26 Pendleton Drive, Hebron, CT. Everyone is welcome and please be sure to bring your own shopping bags. There are no forms to fill out for the mobile distribution.
Lebanon Social Services
Lebanon Social Services Office offers a variety of services to Lebanon children, adults, and seniors. Social Services Administrator Shelly Ashcom works with federal, state, and local organizations to provide assistance to Lebanon residents in need. Town of Lebanon Social Services
Housing and Homeless Services Unit
Housing and Homeless Services can be accessed through Coordinated Access Networks (CAN). Persons are prioritized for housing services based on an assessment to be completed after calling 211.
*The use of the resources/programs in this section are not required by LPS to be used by parents/guardians. They are recommendations only.*
Lebanon Public Schools App
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Mission Statement
The Lebanon Public Schools, in partnership with families and the community, will prepare students to be contributing members of a diverse global society. We will provide a safe, nurturing, rigorous, and student-centered learning environment.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement of the Lebanon Public Schools:
The school community of Lebanon is committed to the mission of honoring and celebrating the diversity of our students, our community, and our nation. We strive to guide our students to conscious, deliberate, individual and collective actions that cultivate the respect of all races, religions, and social backgrounds. Our school community endeavors to produce graduates who are equipped with a greater understanding of the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Nondiscrimination Statement of the Lebanon Public Schools:
The Lebanon Board of Education, in compliance with federal and state law, affirms its policy of equal educational opportunity for all students and equal employment opportunity for all persons. It is the policy of the District to promote nondiscrimination and an environment free of harassment and the District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, alienage, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other category protected under state or federal law in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its program or activities. The District also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups and is specifically required by Title IX not to discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs and activities. The District shall make reasonable accommodations for individuals with identified physical and mental impairments that constitute disabilities, consistent with federal and state statutes and regulations.
The following person has been designated to handle inquires regarding Title IX sex discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, Title IX Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding other non-discrimination policies: Dawn DeLia, 504/ADA Coordinator, 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT; 860-642-5764
Lebanon Public Schools
Email: andrew.gonzalez@lebanonct.org
Website: https://www.lebanonct.org/
Location: 891 Exeter Road, Lebanon, CT, USA
Phone: 860-642-5637